Preparing patients for a Papanicolaou (Pap) smear is described in patient information for pelvic examination.

In addition, the following advice for patients will increase the chances of collecting an adequate specimen.

Before your Pap smear:

1. Do not douche.
2. Do not use tampons.
3. Do not use cervical caps.
4. Do not use sponges.
5. Do not use pessaries.
6. Do not use intravaginal medications.
7. Avoid intercourse 48 hours before the examination.
8. Avoid scheduling a Pap smear during active menstruation.
9. Avoid scheduling a Pap smear when you have symptoms of active infection.

All of these may interfere with obtaining an adequate specimen. For example, the inflammation associated with infection may obscure cells on the specimen. Coitus not only may cause trauma, but can also temporarily shrink the transformation zone (Lichtman, Singer).